<<< View a demo of phone system

Automated Self-Service Shopping Stepping Up Its Game

Self service shopping is on the up like never before, bringing consumers a new dawn of convenience and time efficiency. In many aspects, such as with late night off-licenses and petrol stations which handle transactions over a Perspex counter window, security also plays a big role in the next generation of do-it-yourself shopping kiosks.

That’s why a new concept which has just been launched in the Netherlands is so appealing; many believe this kind of technology is set to soar in the UK in 2011 as companies look for new ways to cut costs and manpower in favour of new gadgetry. Not always the best news for those in dispensable jobs; but for businesses it’s a market that has become hugely intriguing.

The Dutch kiosk has been unveiled at Amsterdam Airport, developed by a local company who specialise in retail concepts geared towards self service and touch screen technology – something that has become a must-have facility throughout the world in recent times with smartphones galore.

The launch consisted of a complete branded self service shopping machine inside the Schiphol Airport and vends AKG Harman products at the flick of a switch and the press of a button.

The un-manned machine delivers products to the consumer from anywhere in the store using touch screen technology and cash or card payment options. No need for a 24-hour workforce with double-time wages – this machine is taking self service to a new level.

According to AKG, the machine draws attention to passing passengers and gives their brand name maximum exposure. It is also aimed at international travellers with an interface that can handle a multitude of languages - and those who are used to buying online, but also interested in nouveau hands-off shopping. The company indicated it will develop more branded machines as ‘the demand for new ways of communicating with target groups is growing rapidly’ and because ‘self-service shopping is the missing link between the internet and the real world’.